A Classic City, with a Personal Twist

Vienna is one of those cities that nestles into your memory, and stays there. Maybe it’s the elegance of the buildings, the charm of the trams, or the fact that even the tap water tastes amazing. For me, Vienna was both a quick solo stop before a work trip to Carinthia and a trip down memory lane. I’d been here several times as a teenager, visiting with my parents and a close friend. This time around, with just 48 hours on a warm summer stopover, I didn’t rush. I wandered, read, took myself out to dinner, and remembered why this city had such a warm hold on my heart.

The vibe? Walkable, clean, relaxed, and full of quiet beauty. I stayed at the Altstadt Vienna and loved it (more below). Here’s a glimpse of what to see, where to stay, what to eat and drink, and why I can’t wait to go back.

Where to Stay in Vienna

Rosewood Vienna

Luxurious, central, and an ideal base for exploring the Innere Stadt. Housed in a beautifully restored historic building just steps from Graben and Stephansdom, it blends Viennese elegance with contemporary refinement. The rooftop bar offers panoramic views, and the service is as polished as it gets. (two Michelin Keys) As a Rosewood Elite Partner, I can unlock exclusive Elite benefits which may include:

Daily breakfast for two
Complimentary one-category upgrade (at booking or on arrival, depending on the property)
Additional bespoke amenities depending on the property

Altstadt Vienna

A design lover’s dream, tucked in the 7th district. Every room is different, mine had a freestanding bathtub and walls lined with books. The afternoon tea ritual (with bowls of candy!) is pure joy, and the staff is warm and thoughtful. (one Michelin Key) Book with me for perks like:

Daily Continental breakfast for two
Room upgrade to the next category (subject to availability at check-in)
Early check-in and late check-out (subject to availability)
Complimentary Wi-Fi
Resort credit to be spent on extras (F&B or spa) on property and during the stay

Almanac Palais Vienna

leek and modern with historic bones. Located in two former palais buildings, this hotel delivers elegant design, intuitive service, and a fantastic spa and wellness area. Book with me for FORA Reserve perks such as:

Daily breakfast for two
Spa access
Upgrade on arrival (if available)
Early check-in and late check-out (if available)

What to Do in Vienna in Summer (and Beyond)

Visit the MuseumQuartier for art, open-air cafés, and a buzzy summer energy.
Stroll through the gardens of Schönbrunn (or visit the palace if you have time).
Climb Kahlenberg for panoramic city views, especially nice at sundown.
Take the U-Bahn and feel like a local. It’s fast, clean, and easy.
Browse the Naschmarkt (come hungry) or the Kutschkermarkt for a more local scene.
Take a selfie at the Prater Ferris wheel or admire the colorful graffiti murals along the Danube Canal.
In summer: pedal-boat rides on the Alte Donau. In winter: sledding at St. Ulrichplatz.

Insider tip: Vienna has vineyards! Head to Wieninger am Nussberg or Heuriger Hirt in the hills for wine with a view. For a hearty meal and fantastic wine at moderate prices, Zum Renner is a favorite at the foot of the hills.

Where to Eat & Drink in Vienna

Ulrich – Great brunch and lunch. A local favorite, casual and delicious. (And where I met the waiter who chatted with me about my book!)

Motto am Fluss – Dining on the Danube canal. Stylish, lively, and excellent cocktails.

Zu den 3 Hacken – Classic Viennese cuisine in a cozy, traditional setting.

Tian Bistro – Inventive, colorful, plant-forward dishes in a relaxed atmosphere. Their Michelin-starred restaurant is more of a splurge.

Chez Bernard – Stylish rooftop dining with a Paris-meets-Vienna vibe.

Brösl – Seasonal, regional, and sustainably focused with Central European and Mediterranean flair.

Haas Beisl – Authentic, traditional Viennese cuisine with top-quality ingredients.

Gerstner – Former imperial patissier, famous for the Esterházy cake.

Schelato – Gelato in unexpected flavors like peanut-butter miso and basil.

Cafe Comet – Across from the Altstadt. Charlie Fürth roasts his own beans.

Café Jelinek – For vintage vibes and traditional pastries.

Fenster Café – Tiny take-away window with coffee in waffle cones.

Café Drechsler – A Vienna icon since 1919, great for breakfast.

Vienna's Best Cocktail Bars

Heuer am Karlsplatz – Best enjoyed on the terrace in summer. Open late.
Parfümerie – Atmospheric and tucked away. Great cocktails.
Krypt. – Hidden bar in a vaulted cellar, with a jazz-club past and a modern edge.
Truth & Dare – Playful and sleek. Worth going for both the drinks and the experience.
Tuer 7 – Exclusive speakeasy feel. Trendy and intimate.
Luster – Hip, beautiful interiors with strong cocktails near the city center.
Halbestadt – Sophisticated with glass façades looking out onto the Gürtel.
The Sign Lounge – Known for their creative and smoky cocktails.

Best time to Visit:

Vienna shines year-round: warm and lively in summer, festive and cozy in winter (hello, Christmas markets). Spring and fall are lovely too, with fewer crowds and perfect café weather.

Seasonal Tip: Christmas markets pop up all over the city in winter, some more classic, others more artsy. I can help you plan the best route.

Pair Vienna With...

Vienna combines beautifully with other destinations. Add on Prague or Budapest, or head into Austria’s alpine lake region for nature and spa time. Want a Mediterranean twist? Vienna to Italy is easier than you think (I took the night train to Milan!). I can help you connect the dots.

Final Thought

Vienna doesn’t demand your attention, it earns it. It’s a city that leaves space for quiet moments, whether it’s sipping espresso, reading at dinner, or walking down a leafy street. Even with just 48 hours, it gave me so much. And I can’t wait to help you make your own memories here.

Ready to plan your Vienna trip? As a luxury travel advisor, I can help you choose the perfect hotel and design a Vienna trip that feels personal from start to finish. Reach out and let’s make it happen.

Vienna in 48 Hours